Accessory For a Shoe

ABSTRACT

An accessory for a shoe includes a heel support member and at least one shoe gripping member arranged on the heel support member and configured to engage, in a releasable manner, at least opposite sides of the shoe when a heel of the shoe is supported by the heel support member. The heel support member is configured to raise the heel of a user by a predetermined extent.

FIELD

Various exemplary embodiments of an accessory for a shoe are described herein.

BACKGROUND

Extent of forward trunk lean is an important aspect of weightlifting and powerlifting, particularly in movements that involve a squatting motion. Excessive forward trunk lean can result in undesirable shear stresses in the lower back area. Furthermore, it is considered beneficial to achieve a position in which the thigh is parallel with a floor or even angled downwardly from the knee to the hip when performing certain squatting type exercises. However, it can be difficult to achieve such a position when the feet are flat. This can be due to limited ankle flexibility and other physiological limitation. Also, when the feet are flat it can be difficult to achieve sufficient muscle excitation in knee extensors.

Weightlifting shoes are often used to address excessive trunk lean and limited ankle flexibility. Such shoes are built up in the heel area to present a wedge-shaped longitudinal cross section. As a result, the ankles are not required to bend to the extent that would be necessary in a flat-footed squatting movement. Also, the raised heel of the user can make it easier for the user to avoid excessive forward trunk lean. Furthermore, the thighs can be lowered and raised in a stable fashion with improved vertical spinal alignment, when compared with lowering and raising in a flat-footed condition.

Such shoes generally result in the heel being raised about 25 mm. However, there does not appear to be a specific minimum or maximum height.

A paper or article by Kimitake Sako, Dave Fortenbaugh and David S. Hydock dated January 2012 from the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research titled “Kinematic Changes Using Weightlifting Shoes on Barbell Back Squat” sets out that using such shoes seems to be beneficial in reducing overall forward trunk lean. Such shoes also appear to contribute to greater muscle excitation in knee extensors.

A problem with weightlifting shoes is that they need to be swapped with other shoes if the user is performing a combination of exercises. Interval duration can be important in some programs or regimes. In those cases, it would simply not be practical to change shoes repetitively.

This problem can be addressed by using a pair of weightlifting plates and supporting a heel on an edge of each plate. Alternatively, a length of timber or a similar article is used. The objective is to achieve a position in which the feet are angled downwardly.

However, a problem with that approach is that such articles do not provide even support over the user's feet. As a result, the user can experience discomfort. Furthermore, it is not possible for the user simply to walk over to another exercise station that might require the use of a heel lift support without having to arrange the heel support articles in the appropriate position.

In U.S. Pat. No. 6,041,523 (Deloreia), there is provided a shoe insert that is used to elevate the user's heel while performing weight-training exercises, such as squats. A problem with this approach is that a user will need to remove his or her shoes to revert back to a flat-footed stance for other exercises where heel lift is not required or is undesirable.

In U.S. Pat. No. 8,336,230, there is described an article of footwear for use in weightlifting. The article includes a raised heel and a substantially flat bottom surface. However, the article of footwear is incapable of converting to an article with a flat sole. It follows that the user will need to swap shoes to revert back to a flat-footed stance for other exercises where heel lift is not required or is undesirable.

SUMMARY

According to the present invention, there is provided an accessory for a shoe, the accessory comprising:

a heel support member; and

at least one shoe gripping member arranged on the heel support member and configured to engage, in a releasable manner, at least opposite sides of the shoe when a heel of the shoe is supported by the heel support member, the heel support member being configured to raise the heel of a user by a predetermined extent.

Thus, when the accessory is mounted or attached to a shoe, the arrangement simulates a weightlifting shoe with the added functionality of detachment without having to change shoes.

The heel support member may have a substantially flat bottom surface and a substantially flat top surface. The top surface may be angled with respect to the bottom surface so that an operative back of the support member is thicker than an operative front of the support member. In one embodiment, the support member may be wedge-shaped.

The accessory may include one gripping member that extends about at least the back of the support member. Instead, the accessory may include a pair of opposed gripping members, extending along respective sides of the support member and at least partially about the back of the heel support member. The gripping members may be spaced or may abut each other over a line that bisects the heel support member.

The gripping members may be of a resiliently deformable material. The gripping members may be shaped so that they deform to accommodate at least the heel of the shoe, so setting up a bias that facilitates engagement with the heel of the shoe. The material may be selected so that the bias is sufficient to cause the gripping members to grip the shoe to retain the accessory in position, allowing the user to move around without the accessory falling off the shoe.

Shoes usually have some form of “upper” connected to the sole. The upper and the sole often define a furrow or channel at their juncture. The gripping members may define inwardly extending retaining formations that are configured to be received in the furrow or channel. Instead, the retaining formations may be configured to engage sides of the shoe sole. For example, the gripping members and the support member may define a volume into which a user can slide the shoe, while worn, from the front to the back. Soles of shoes that are conventionally worn for exercise or sport are generally of an expanded, resiliently flexible material, such as a foam, for example an EVA foam.

Thus, the retaining formations may be configured to at least partially embed themselves in the sides of the sole. This serves to inhibit disengagement of the sole and the retaining formations while the user or wearer moves around and even jumps without fear of the accessory dislodging.

The accessory may include a roller assembly that is mounted in the heel support member. The roller assembly may include a roller that extends rearwardly from a back of the heel support member. The roller may be offset from the bottom surface to avoid interference with the floor.

The roller assembly may include a carrier. The roller may be mounted, in a rotatable manner, on the carrier. The heel support member may define a recess in which the carrier can be mounted in a releasable manner.

In one embodiment, the gripping members may be mounted on respective sides of the heel support member. The gripping members may be adjustable towards and away from each other so that differently sized shoes can be accommodated.

Each gripping member may include wall portions that define the retaining formations. The wall portions may extend upwardly from respective sides of the heel support member. One or more mounting lugs may extend generally at right angles to each wall portion. Each mounting lug may be received in a corresponding recess defined by the heel support member. The recesses and the mounting lugs may be configured so that the gripping members can be displaced towards and away from each other with the mounting lugs sliding to and fro in the respective recesses. A fastening mechanism may be provided to engage the mounting lugs when a desired position of the gripping members is achieved. The fastening mechanism may be releasable so that the gripping members can be re-adjusted to suit different users.

In another embodiment, the accessory may be an assembly of two bases to define the heel support member and two shoe gripping members arranged on respective bases.

Each base may defines at least two passages, the passages of respective bases being capable of being brought into register with each other, the accessory including fasteners that can be received through respective passages so that the bases can be fastened to each other.

The accessory may include an adjustable spacing arrangement to permit the bases to be spaced from each other to a desired extent to adjust an overall width of the accessory.

The spacing arrangement may include at least one spacer that can be received between at least the bases, the, or each spacer being shaped to accommodate the fasteners so that the bases can be fastened to each other with the spacers sandwiched between the bases. The spacing arrangement may include a plurality of the spacers.

The, or each, spacer may have a profile that corresponds with that of the bases and the gripping members such that edges of the spacers are flush with the bases and the gripping members to define continuous, even surfaces.

The overall width of the accessory may be adjustable by locating spacers between the bases and gripping members. In particular, the accessory can include a number of spacers of predetermined thickness. A desired number of spacers can be selected to achieve a required overall width of the accessory.

The base portions and the spacers may define at least two sets of corresponding openings that can be brought into register or alignment with each other so that fasteners in the form of fixing screws or tie rods can be received through respective sets of openings to fasten the base portions together with the spacers sandwiched between the base portions.

The spacers and the base portions may have complementary locating or alignment formations or structures that engage each other when the base portions are fastened together. Thus, relative rotational movement of the components can be inhibited during use.

The, or each, gripping member may include a wall that extends from a periphery of the support member. The wall may have at least one heel gripping formation that extends inwardly into a zone defined by the support member and the, or each, wall. The, or each, gripping formation may be configured to engage a sole or other part of the shoe when the shoe, worn by the user, is positioned in the zone thus inhibiting release of the shoe from the accessory when the shoe is lifted.

The, or each, gripping formation may be in the form of a ridge extending along the wall, the ridge projecting into the zone so that a shoe, worn by a user, can be slid operatively backwards into the zone such that the gripping formation at least partially embeds itself into the sole or other part of the shoe.

The, or each, gripping member may include a wall that extends from a periphery of the support member and that is angled inwardly with respect to the support member.

The heel support member may define a passage, a strap being receivable through the passage, the strap being configured so that the accessory can be strapped to the shoe if necessary.

The heel support member may define an externally opening recess so that a user can use a shoe, worn by the user, to engage the recess and so detach another shoe, worn by the user, from the accessory.

Exemplary embodiments are now described, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of an accessory for a shoe.

FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the accessory of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a plan view of one gripping member of another exemplary embodiment of an accessory for a shoe.

FIG. 4 shows a plan view of the embodiment referred to with reference to FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 shows a plan view of another gripping member of the embodiment of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 shows an optional roller assembly for use with the accessory.

FIG. 7 shows a side view of the accessory of FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 shows a schematic view of a user carrying out a handstand push-up without the accessory.

FIG. 9 shows a schematic view of a user carrying out a handstand push-up with the accessory.

FIG. 10 shows a three-dimensional view of another exemplary embodiment of an accessory for a shoe.

FIG. 11 shows a three dimensional view of another exemplary embodiment of an accessory for a shoe.

FIG. 12 shows a three-dimensional, exploded view of the accessory of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 shows a plan view from above of the accessory of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 shows a front view of the accessory of FIG. 11.

FIG. 15 shows a rear view of the accessory of FIG. 11.

FIG. 16 shows a side view of the accessory of FIG. 11.

FIG. 17 shows a plan view from underneath of the accessory of FIG. 11.

FIG. 18 shows a three-dimensional view of the accessory of FIG. 11, with a fastening arrangement.

FIG. 19 shows a side view of the accessory of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 shows an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of an accessory for a shoe.

FIG. 21 shows a detailed view of ribs or ridges that are used to retain a shoe in or on the accessory.

In FIGS. 1 and 2, reference numeral 10 generally indicates one embodiment, in accordance with the invention, of an accessory for a shoe.

The accessory 10 includes a heel support member 12. A gripping member 14 is arranged on the heel support member 12 and is configured to engage, in a releasable manner, at least opposite sides of the shoe when a heel of the shoe is supported by the heel support member 12. The heel support member 12 is configured to raise the heel of the shoe, and thus the foot, by a predetermined extent. Such an extent can be between about 10 mm and 35 mm. In one example, the extent can be about 25 mm.

The heel support member 12 is elongate with a substantially flat bottom surface 16 and a substantially flat top surface 18. The top surface 18 is angled with respect to the bottom surface 16 so that a back 20 of the support member 12 is thicker than a front 22. In this example, the support member 12 is wedge-shaped in longitudinal cross-section.

The gripping member 14 is of a resiliently deformable material. For example, the member 14 can be of a resiliently deformable plastics material, such as synthetic rubber or can be of a natural rubber. Thus, the gripping member 14 can deform to accommodate at least a heel of the shoe, so setting up a bias that facilitates engagement with the shoe. For example, this occurs when the shoe is slid, heel-first, into a zone 24 defined by the member 14.

The gripping member 14 defines an inwardly extending retaining formation 26 that is configured to be received in a furrow or channel defined by a juncture of the sole of the shoe and the upper of the shoe. Alternatively, the inwardly extending retaining formation 26 can be configured to grip the heel of the shoe.

The heel support member 12 is configured to provide a substantially rigid support. Thus, the heel support member 12 can be of a high density artificial or natural rubber or other plastics or polymeric material. In particular, both the gripping member 14 and the heel support member 12 are of a material that facilitates moulding of the members 12, 14. In this embodiment, the heel support member and gripping member 12, 14 are in the form of a one-piece moulding. Furthermore, the heel support member 12 is of a material selected to provide a suitable coefficient of friction to inhibit slippage of the sole of the shoe, in use.

The heel support member 12 defines a flared base 28. The base 28 provides stability. It also allows a user to use the front or the side of an opposite shoe to push the accessory 10 from the shoe without having to bend down.

In FIGS. 4, 7 and 10, reference numeral 30 generally indicates another embodiment of an accessory for a shoe. With reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

Instead of one gripping member 14, the accessory 30 has a pair of opposed gripping members 32, separated at the back 20 of the support member 12. Each gripping member 32 extends upwardly from a respective side of the support member 12 and partially about the back 20 of the support member 12. Thus, a gap 34 separates the gripping members 32. It is to be understood that the gap 34 is optional. Instead, the gripping members 14 can touch each other and even overlap, if necessary.

Each gripping member 32 includes a wall or wall portion 36 that defines an associated retaining formation 26. The wall portions 36 extend upwardly from respective sides 38 of the heel support member 12. Two mounting lugs 40 extend generally at right angles to each portion 36. Each mounting lug 40 is received in a corresponding recess 42 defined by the support member 12 in each side 38. The recesses 42 and the mounting lugs 40 are configured so that the gripping members 14 can be displaced towards and away from each other with the mounting lugs 40 sliding to and fro in the respective recesses 42.

Fastening mechanisms in the form of grub screws 44 are threaded into the support member 12 from the bottom surface 16 to engage the mounting lugs 40 when the gripping members 14 are in a desired position relative to each other. Thus, the positions of the gripping members 14 can be adjusted to suit different shoe sizes or users or to adjust gripping pressure exerted by the members 14.

The accessory 30 includes a roller assembly 46 that is mounted in the support member 12. The roller assembly 46 includes a roller 54 rotatably mounted on a carrier 48. The carrier 48 includes a pair of mounting legs 50 receivable in a pair of corresponding recesses or sockets 52 defined by the member 12 and extending into the member 12 from the back 20. The roller 54 and the sockets 52 are configured so that the roller 54 is offset upwardly with respect to the bottom surface 16.

In FIG. 10, reference numeral 60 generally indicates another embodiment, according to the invention, of an accessory for a shoe. With reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Use of common reference numerals is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

The accessory 60 includes a pair of gripping members 62 that extend upwardly from opposite sides 64 of the support member 12. The gripping members 62 operate in a similar manner to the gripping member 14 and the gripping members 32. It follows that when a user slides the shoe into the zone 24 heel-first, the gripping members 62 serve to retain the accessory 60 in position on the shoe.

Applicant envisages that the accessory will find application in sporting activities that can require a rapid change in foot orientation. An example of such an activity or sport is that known as “cross-fit”. In that sport or training, it is often necessary to change from running to weightlifting, for example. Shoes with a relatively small heel-drop and flexible soles are popular for running. However, such shoes are not optimal for weightlifting, which usually requires more heel-drop and stiffer soles. The accessory can be engaged with the shoe after running. This can happen relatively quickly and without the user having to bend down and make adjustments. This can occur, for example, when the shoe is slid, heel-first into the zone 24. Thus, the user can transition to weightlifting, for example, relatively quickly. The gripping members 14 allow the accessory to be disengaged from the shoe, again without bending down. For example, this can be achieved by the user pushing a toe portion of the opposite shoe against the flared base 28 to push or lever the accessory off the shoe.

The roller assembly 46 is configured to facilitate the performance of a number of exercises. For example, the user can perform a handstand with the rollers 54 bearing against a wall. In that position, the performance of handstand push-ups is enhanced since movement of the shoe heels relative to the wall is not hindered by frictional engagement. As can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the roller assembly 46 can provide a significant advantage. FIG. 8 shows a user without the roller assembly 46. As can be seen, it is necessary for the user to maintain a generally vertical orientation while performing the handstand push-ups. FIG. 9 shows a user with the roller assembly 46. With the roller assembly 46, the user is able to orientate him- or herself at an angle significantly offset from the vertical. This allows the user to engage muscle groups which would not usually be engaged in the vertical orientation. It will be appreciated that the roller assembly 46 also facilitates a number of different exercises or movements which would not usually be possible without the roller assembly 46. For example, a user can assume a seated position with his or her legs stretched out. The user can then bear against the floor with the rollers 54 and move his or her legs back and forth.

In FIGS. 11 to 19, reference numeral 70 generally indicates a further embodiment, in accordance with the invention, of an accessory for a shoe. With reference to FIGS. 1 to 10, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified.

The accessory 70 includes an assembly of two base portions or bases 74.1, 74.2 and two shoe gripping members 72.1, 72.2 arranged on respective bases 74.1, 74.2. Each gripping member 72 includes a wall 76 that extends or projects upwardly from a periphery of the base portion 74. The bases 74.1, 74.2 and the walls 76.1, 762 are configured so that they can be attached together such that the assembled accessory 70 defines a heel support member 77 with the walls 76 extending about the heel support member 77 and projecting upwardly from a periphery of the heel support member 77.

Furthermore, when the members 72.1, 72.2 are connected together, they define a substantially flat bottom surface 73 and a substantially flat top surface 75. The top surface 75 is angled with respect to the bottom surface 73 so that a back of the support member 77 is thicker than a front of the support member 77. As can be seen, the support member 77 is generally wedge-shaped. Thus, the top surface 75 can provide even support over the heel or rear portion of the user's foot. The heel support member is dimensioned to raise the heel of the user by a predetermined amount, such as between about 10 mm and 40 mm or some other height depending on the requirements of a weightlifting-type exercise. For example, said predetermined amount could be about 25 mm.

Each of the walls 76 includes a side portion 78 and a rear or back portion 80. Heel gripping formations in the form of ridges or ribs 82 extend inwardly from internal surfaces of the side and rear portions 78, 80. Furthermore, each of the walls 76 is sloped inwardly. The characteristics of the sloped walls 76 and the ridges 82 facilitate the gripping of a heel of a shoe within a zone 84 defined by the heel support member 77 and the walls 76. The ridges 82 are selected or configured so that they can embed at least partially into at least the heel of the shoes worn by the user. The inventor has performed trials with over one hundred pairs of shoes of the type that would usually be worn by persons performing weightlifting exercises, circuit training, or the type of training known as “cross-fit”. The configuration of the ridges or ribs 82 (for example, as described with reference to FIG. 21) are a result of such trials.

As can be seen in FIGS. 11 and 12, the ridges have a frontal, sloped profile. The ridges can have a generally rectangular cross-section. Alternatively, they can be peaked or define apices when viewed in cross-section. In either configuration, a user is able to slide the heels of his or her shoes backwards into the respective zones 84. This results in the ridges at least partially embedding themselves into the heels or soles. As a result, the user is able to walk about with the accessories 70 connected to his or her shoes. Furthermore, this level of engagement between the accessories 70 and the shoes can be achieved without the user having to bend down and perform any form of adjustment or fitting. This is useful in the type of training or sport known as “cross-fit”. As is known, in such training or sport, it is necessary for a user often to rapidly change between one form of exercise and another. In the event that the accessories 70 are used, the user can rapidly change between one form of exercise in which a flat-footed stance is appropriate and another form of exercise in which the feet should be inclined, for example, during a weightlifting exercise such as squatting.

The bases 74 define corresponding passages 86 that extend from one side to the other between the walls 76.1, 76.2. Fasteners in the form of tie rods or threaded fixing screws 88 extend through respective passages 86. Each of the fixing screws 88 has a threaded end. The threaded end of each fixing screw 88 engages a threaded insert 90 that is positioned in a socket 91 that terminates each passage 86.

A hexagonal bung or cap 92 can be received in each socket 91 to cover the insert.

Each of the fixing screws 88 includes a head 94. The heads 94 of the tie rods 88 are received in the sockets 91. A cap 95 can engage each head 94 within an associated socket 91 for aesthetic purposes.

It follows that the base portions 74 and the walls 76 can be clamped together with the fixing screws 88 and the associated inserts 90.

A width of the zone 84 is adjustable to suit different shoe sizes. Thus, the accessory 70 includes a number of spacers 96 that can be received between the bases 74 and the back portions 80. Each spacer 96 has a profile that corresponds with a profile of each base 74 and back portion 80. Thus, each spacer 96 has a base portion 97 that corresponds with the bases 74 and a projection 99 extending from a rear end of the base portion 97 and corresponding with the back portion 80 of the walls 76.

Furthermore, each spacer 96 defines openings 98 that correspond with the passages 86 to accommodate the fixing screws 88.

Each spacer 96 has a predetermined thickness so that the number of the spacers 96 can determine a width of the zone 84.

As with the previous embodiments, at least the wall 76 can be of a resiliently flexible material. This allows flexing of the wall 76 to receive the heel of a shoe and also to facilitate retention of the accessory 70 on the heel of the shoe.

A ground pad 100 is attached to a bottom surface of each base 74. The ground pad 100 can be of a relatively rigid material to provide stability to the accessory 70.

A rear surface 102 of the base 74 and the back portion 80 defines a recess 103. The recess 103 is configured so that a user can engage the accessory 70 with an opposite shoe to remove the accessory 70 by levering or pushing the accessory 70 off the shoe. This feature together with the ridges or ribs 82 provides a mechanism by which the user can rapidly engage the accessories 70 with, or detach the accessories 70 from, his or her shoes by engaging the recess 103 with the toe or side of a shoe.

The bases 74 and the spacers 96 define a slotted opening or passage 104. A strap 106 (FIGS. 18 and 19) can be received through the passage 104. An adjustable fastening assembly, in this example, a buckle assembly 108 is arranged on the strap 106. Thus, a user can strap the accessory 70 to his or her shoe further to secure the accessory 70 to the shoe. Furthermore, the strap 106 can be used to retain the accessory 70 together as a single unit. This can be useful in training or sports sessions which are predominantly weightlifting. The strap 106 can be a Velcro strap that can engage itself in a conventional manner using a buckle or the like.

In FIG. 20, reference numeral 110 generally indicates an exemplary embodiment of an accessory for a shoe. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Such common use of reference numerals is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

The accessory 110 includes a pair of rubber soles 112 that are fastened to respective bases 74. These can provide grip on a floor during rigorous exercise.

Each base 74 defines a series of laterally extending grooves or channels 114. These can serve to reduce shoe slippage. Such shoe slippage can be reduced when a user lands during an Olympic weightlifting movement such as split jerks and snatches. As the shoe and the accessory land after such a movement, the grooves 114 help to grip a sole of the shoe and to stop the shoe from sliding forwards.

The spacers 96 and the bases 74 include locating or alignment formations or structures that engage each other when the bases 74 are fastened together. These are configured to inhibit relative rotational movement of the components. In other words, they provide a level of torsional rigidity about a lateral extending line.

The locating or alignment formations include a number of projections or buttons 116 that extend from the base 74.1 and the spacers 96 to nest in recesses in a spacer 96 closest to the base 74.1, adjacent spacer(s) 96 and the base 74.2. Thus, the bases 74 and the spacers 96 can lock together when the fixing screws 88 are tightened.

FIG. 21 shows a cross-sectional detail of the ribs 82. In this example, the ribs 82 have a generally rectangular cross-section and define a groove between them. The ribs 82 can have a thickness of between about 0.5 mm and 4.0 mm, for example about 2.0 mm. The ribs 82 project from the walls 76 by between about 0.5 mm and 3.5 mm, for example, about 1.6 mm. However, it will be appreciated that the ribs 82 could be further customised with different dimensions to suit different footwear. The position of the ribs 82 relative to the bases 74 together with their dimensions has been determined in accordance with a study of over 100 shoes of the type worn for training and sports.

In this example, two ribs 82 are shown. However, there could be one rib or three or more ribs.

In this example, the bases 74 and the walls 76 are of a thermoplastic elastomer. The spacers 96 are also of a thermoplastic elastomer. It will be appreciated that these components could be fabricated from other materials, as well.

It is to be appreciated that the accessory can have a variety of dimensions depending on the requirements. However, it is envisaged that a pair of accessories, supplied with a suitable number of spacers and fixing screws of suitable length can be used with substantially all conventional forms of training or sports shoes.

In one example, the accessory can have an overall length of between about 100 mm and 200 mm, for example, about 140 mm. The accessory can have an overall height of between about 30 mm and 60 mm, for example, about 48 mm.

At the back of the accessory, the walls can extend from the support member between about 15 mm and 30 mm, for example, about 23 mm.

The walls taper downwardly, from the back to the front, when viewed from the side, as can be seen in the drawings.

The walls are also angled inwardly at an angle of between about 65 degrees and 85 degrees, for example, about 77 degrees. In other words, the walls have a slope with a pitch of between about 2 mm and 8 mm, for example, about 5 mm.

The spacers can be of various thicknesses. In one example, the spacers can vary from about 1 mm to 4 mm in thickness, such as about 2.5 mm in thickness.

These dimensions apply to the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 21. However, they could apply to other embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

In use, a pair of the accessories can be supplied with a set of the spacers, allowing the user to adjust the width of the accessories to suit his or her shoes by using more or less spacers or selecting one of a number of spacers of different thicknesses.

Thus, the inventor envisages that the accessory need not be provided with a set of spacers with the same thickness. Instead, the accessory can include a number of spacers of different thicknesses so that the selection of a certain spacer can be made to adjust the overall width of the accessory.

In one example, the spacers can be provided so that the overall width of the accessory can vary from about 85 mm to 100 mm. It will be appreciated that this can be increased by providing more or different spacers and longer fixing screws.

In general, the accessory can be attached or detached from the shoe in a hands-free manner. Furthermore, when attached, a user can perform movements such as walking, running and jumping. Detachment is simply carried out by engaging an opposite shoe with the recess or cut-out in the back of the heel member, as described above.

Throughout the specification, including the claims, where the context permits, the term “comprising” and variants thereof such as “comprise” or “comprises” are to be interpreted as including the stated integer or integers without necessarily excluding any other integers.

It is to be understood that the terminology employed above is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The described embodiments are intended to be illustrative of the invention, without limiting the scope thereof. The invention is capable of being practised with various modifications and additions as will readily occur to those skilled in the art.

Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter, are described herein, textually and/or graphically, including the best mode, if any, known to the inventors for carrying out the claimed subject matter. Variations (e.g., modifications and/or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the claimed subject matter to be practiced other than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, as permitted by law, the claimed subject matter includes and covers all equivalents of the claimed subject matter and all improvements to the claimed subject matter. Moreover, every combination of the above described elements, activities, and all possible variations thereof are encompassed by the claimed subject matter unless otherwise clearly indicated herein, clearly and specifically disclaimed, or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate one or more embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of any claimed subject matter unless otherwise stated. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter.

The use of words that indicate orientation or direction of travel is not to be considered limiting. Thus, words such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “side”, “up”, down”, “upper”, “lower”, “top”, “bottom”, “forwards”, “backwards”, “towards”, “distal”, “proximal”, “in”, “out” and synonyms, antonyms and derivatives thereof have been selected for convenience only. The inventor envisages that various exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter can be supplied in any particular orientation and the claimed subject matter is intended to include such orientations.

Thus, regardless of the content of any portion (e.g., title, field, background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, unless clearly specified to the contrary, such as via explicit definition, assertion, or argument, or clearly contradicted by context, with respect to any claim, whether of this application and/or any claim of any application claiming priority hereto, and whether originally presented or otherwise:

-   -   a. there is no requirement for the inclusion of any particular         described or illustrated characteristic, function, activity, or         element, any particular sequence of activities, or any         particular interrelationship of elements;     -   b. no characteristic, function, activity, or element is         “essential”;     -   c. any elements can be integrated, segregated, and/or         duplicated;     -   d. any activity can be repeated, any activity can be performed         by multiple entities, and/or any activity can be performed in         multiple jurisdictions; and     -   e. any activity or element can be specifically excluded, the         sequence of activities can vary, and/or the interrelationship of         elements can vary.

The use of the terms “a”, “an”, “said”, “the”, and/or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted.

Moreover, when any number or range is described herein, unless clearly stated otherwise, that number or range is approximate. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value and each separate subrange defined by such separate values is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. For example, if a range of 1 to 10 is described, that range includes all values therebetween, such as for example, 1.1, 2.5, 3.335, 5, 6.179, 8.9999, etc., and includes all subranges therebetween, such as for example, 1 to 3.65, 2.8 to 8.14, 1.93 to 9, etc.

Accordingly, every portion (e.g., title, field, background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, other than the claims themselves, is to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive, and the scope of subject matter protected by any patent that issues based on this application is defined only by the claims of that patent. 

1. An accessory for a shoe, the accessory comprising: a heel support member; and at least one shoe gripping member arranged on the heel support member and configured to engage, in a releasable manner, at least opposite sides of the shoe when a heel of the shoe is supported by the heel support member, the heel support member being configured to raise the heel of a user by a predetermined extent.
 2. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, in which the heel support member has a substantially flat bottom surface and a substantially flat top surface, the top surface being angled with respect to the bottom surface so that an operative back of the heel support member is thicker than an operative front of the support member.
 3. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, which includes one gripping member that extends about at least an operative back of the heel support member.
 4. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, which includes a pair of opposed gripping members that extend along respective sides of the support member and at least partially about the back of the heel support member.
 5. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, which is an assembly of two bases to define the heel support member and two gripping members arranged on respective bases.
 6. An accessory as claimed in claim 5, in which each base defines at least two passages, the passages of respective bases being capable of being brought into register with each other, the accessory including fasteners that can be received through respective passages so that the bases can be fastened to each other.
 7. An accessory as claimed in claim 6, which includes an adjustable spacing arrangement to permit the bases to be spaced from each other to a desired extent to adjust an overall width of the accessory.
 8. An accessory as claimed in claim 7, in which the spacing arrangement includes at least one spacer that can be received between at least the bases, the, or each spacer being shaped to accommodate the fasteners so that the bases can be fastened to each other with the spacers sandwiched between the bases.
 9. An accessory as claimed in claim 8, in which the spacing arrangement includes a plurality of the spacers.
 10. An accessory as claimed in claim 8, in which the, or each, spacer has a profile that corresponds with that of the bases and the gripping members such that edges of the spacers are flush with the bases and the gripping members to define continuous, even surfaces.
 11. An accessory as claimed in claim 9, in which the spacers and the bases have complementary locating formations that engage each other when the bases are fastened together such that relative rotational movement of components can be inhibited during use.
 12. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, in which the, or each, gripping member includes a wall that extends from a periphery of the support member, the wall having at least one heel gripping formation that extends inwardly into a zone defined by the support member and the, or each, wall, the, or each, gripping formation being configured to engage a sole or other part of the shoe when the shoe, worn by the user, is positioned in the zone thus inhibiting release of the shoe from the accessory when the shoe is lifted.
 13. An accessory as claimed in claim 12, in which the, or each, gripping formation is in the form of a ridge extending along the wall, the ridge projecting into the zone so that a shoe, worn by a user, can be slid operatively backwards into the zone such that the gripping formation at least partially embeds itself into the sole or other part of the shoe.
 14. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, in which the, or each, gripping member includes a wall that extends from a periphery of the support member and that is angled inwardly with respect to the support member.
 15. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, in which the heel support member defines a passage, a strap being receivable through the passage, the strap being configured so that the accessory can be strapped to the shoe if necessary.
 16. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, which includes a roller assembly that is mounted in the heel support member, the assembly including a roller that extends rearwardly from a back of the heel support member.
 17. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, in which the heel support member defined an externally opening recess so that a user can use a shoe, worn by the user, to engage the recess and so detach another shoe, worn by the user, from the accessory. 